These annual Christmas Runs took place across West Surrey and North East Hampshire, in Farnham and its surrounding villages, Farnborough, Fleet, Yateley, Guildford and Haslemere. Some school were old hands, having taken part in previous years, while others were new to this annual festive fundraising event. Teachers donned Santa suits while their pupils put on either reindeer antlers and flashing red noses, or elf hats with pointy ears, before they all took to their playgrounds or playing fields, running laps in their festive outfits.
The money raised by these sporty pupils and their teachers will be used to fund the supportive and end of life care which Phyllis Tuckwell provides for patients and families facing a terminal illness, such as cancer. Every day the charity supports over 250 patients and relatives – in their own homes, at the Hospice in Farnham and at the Beacon Centre in Guildford – through a mix of medical care, nursing, therapies, counselling, social work and practical support. However, as the NHS/Government only covers 20% of its costs, it has to raise over £15,000 a day to be able to do this, and therefore relies heavily on the support and generosity of local schools and individuals.
“We would like the thank everyone who took part in 2015’s Reindeer and Elf Runs,” said Ashleigh Tennent, Community Fundraising Manger at Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice Care. “Together you have helped us raise over £41,000, beating last year’s total and bringing our total over the five years that we have held these Runs to over £150,000!”
As well as raising money, the School Reindeer and Elf Runs also raised awareness of the vital role which Phyllis Tuckwell plays in caring for those who are facing a terminal illness. “We think Phyllis Tuckwell does a fantastic job,” said Katy Pinchess, Headteacher of Bentley CE Primary School, whose staff and pupils took part in the Runs. “The children have really impressed me with their thoughtfulness about the charity, and the fun spirit was definitely there!”
If you would like to find out more about Phyllis Tuckwell and the support it provides, or find out about raising money to help fund its care, please visit the Supporting Us webpage.
Caption: Pupils from Rydes Hill School in Guildford give a big cheer for Phyllis Tuckwell’s Reindeer and Elf Runs!
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Notes for Editors:
For press enquiries and alternative pictures contact: Jen Barnes at Phyllis Tuckwell on 01252 729433 or email jen.barnes@pth.org.uk
